Sandlands Lodi Cinsault 2023

Tegan Passalacqua’s Sandlands project represents one of California’s most compelling explorations of forgotten grape varieties, and this Cinsault from Lodi’s legendary Bechthold Vineyard tells perhaps the most remarkable story of all. These vines, planted in 1886, are among the world’s oldest Cinsault plantings—a living piece of California’s viticultural history that predates Prohibition by more than three decades.

The Bechthold Vineyard has become something of a pilgrimage site for winemakers seeking authentic expressions of heritage varieties. Passalacqua, who cut his teeth working with some of Napa’s most prestigious producers, recognized the extraordinary potential of these ancient vines to produce something entirely different from California’s mainstream offerings. His approach honors both the vineyard’s age and Cinsault’s Mediterranean origins, crafting wines that speak to place rather than power.

At just 12.6% alcohol, this Cinsault embodies the elegance that made Passalacqua’s reputation. With only nine barrels produced, it represents the kind of small-lot winemaking that allows these historic vines to express their full character—a rare glimpse into California’s viticultural past through a distinctly modern lens.